Former Formula One racer and four-time Paralympic gold medal winner Alex Zanardi has passed away at the age of 59, his family has announced.

In a statement released on Saturday morning, they said Alessandro Zanardi died suddenly on the evening of May 1, passing away peacefully with his nearest and dearest beside him.

The Italian, born in Bologna, raced in Formula One for five campaigns and secured his best result of sixth place at the 1993 Brazilian Grand Prix before a serious collision in 2001 led to the amputation of both his legs.

Following his life-changing surgery, Zanardi made an remarkable recovery and went on to become a Paralympic champion. He took part in the London Games in 2012, winning two gold medals in the para-cycling discipline, with a further two golds following at the Rio de Janeiro Games four years after that.

A regular victor at the UCI para-cycling Road World Championships, including most recently in Emmen in 2019, another serious incident the following year forced another extended period away from competition.

The FIA released a statement saying Zanardi, the former Formula One driver and two-time CART champion, had become one of sport’s most respected competitors through his journey from life-altering accident to Paralympic gold medallist, standing as a lasting symbol of bravery and resolve.

In his tribute, F1 president Stefano Domenicali said he was deeply saddened by the loss of his close friend. He described Zanardi as a truly inspirational figure both as a person and an athlete, noting he would always remember his remarkable fortitude. Domenicali highlighted how Zanardi confronted obstacles that would have defeated anyone, yet constantly moved forward with a smile and unwavering resolve that motivated everyone around him. While the grief was profound, his legacy endured strongly. At this difficult time, his thoughts went out to Zanardi’s wife Daniela, son Niccolo, the wider family and all who knew him.

Prior to his CART career, Zanardi had raced for Team Jordan, Minardi and Team Lotus in Formula One.

His move to CART brought championship success, with consecutive titles achieved for Chip Ganassi before a short stint back in Formula One with Williams.

Once Zanardi was physically able to drive again, initially using hand-controlled braking and acceleration systems, a vehicle was adapted to accommodate his prosthetic limbs for the 2003 European Touring Car Championship round at Monza.

He even managed to return to testing in a Formula One machine, though he soon channelled his efforts towards a fresh ambition. After completing numerous marathons, hand-cycling provided his route back to competitive success and podium finishes.